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HomeMy WebLinkAbout20021001 Ver 1_Complete File_20020624oWwt VIIS °t4 ?le Sah d ?b? uu r! ,yam - STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA 'r ,SSu? C 1 ss? DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION JAMES B. HUNT JR. P.O. BOX 25201, RALEIGH, N.C. 27611-5201 E. NORRIS TOLSON GOVERNOR SECRETARY January 21, 1999 [ Q TO: Ms. C ndi Bell MEMORANDUM Y m I JAN 2 1 1999 DWQ - DENR WETLANDS GROUP FROM: W. D. Gilmore, P. E., Manager NYATER UALITY S-CT' Planning and Environmental Branch SUBJECT: Review of Scoping Sheets for,the following projects: Project T.I.P. County Bridge No. State Route Planning Engineer B-3435 Chowan No. 4 SR 1207 Bill Goodwin -3217 Onslow No. 21 SR 1503 Bill Goodwin B-3378 Wayne No. 34 NC 111 Karen Orthner -3538 Wayne No. 296 SR 1222 Karen Orthner B-3539 Wayne No. 164 SR 1571 Karen Orthner Attached for your review and comments are the scoping sheets and location maps for the subject projects. The purpose of this information and the related review procedure is to have an early "meeting of the minds" as to the scope of work that should be performed and thereby enable us to better implement the projects. Scoping meetings for these projects are scheduled for February 18, 1999 in the Planning and Environmental Branch Conference Room (Room 470). These scoping meetings will be held back to back beginning at 9:00 A. M. in the order shown above. You may provide us with your comments at the meeting, mail them to us prior to the meeting, or e-mail them to bgoodwin@dot.state.nc.us prior to the meeting. Thank you for your assistance in this part of our planning process. If there are any questions about the meetings or the scoping sheets, please call the indicated Project Planning Engineer, at 733-3141. WDG/bg Attachments N-s a-1-33'$ R e- (ft 4A C?(00-q '-< -. ? Ns BRIDGE PROJECT SCOPING SHEET TIP PROJECT: B-3539 F. A. PROJECT: BRSTP -1571(3) STATE PROJECT: 8.2331401 DIVISION: Four COUNTY: Wayne ROUTE: SR 1571 DESCRIPTION: Replacement of Bridge No. 164 on SR 1571 over Stoney Creek PROJECT PURPOSE: Replace obsolete bridge PROJECT U.S.G.S. QUAD SHEET(S): Northeast Goldsboro Quad Sheet ROADWAY CLASSIFICATION: Rural Local Route TIP CONSTRUCTION COST .......................................................................... $ 371,000 TIP RIGHT OF WAY COST .......................................................................... $ 31,000 TIP TOTAL COST ........................................................................................... $ 402,000 TRAFFIC: CURRENT 3000 VPD; DESIGN YEAR (2025) 5100 VPD TTST 1 % DUAL 3 % EXISTING ROADWAY TYPICAL SECTION: Two lane shoulder section, 18 foot pavement EXISTING STRUCTURE: LENGTH 11.0 METERS WIDTH 7.7 METERS 36.0 FEET 25.3 FEET COMMENTS: 11571 111 O S 1003 Langston "0 1642 OUj 1623 0 1624 e l 1622 0 O? 1651 O? /."- % 1664 1556 I_- 1672 S 1673 157 1 1620 yio "'" Bridge No.164 1571 1556 1674 1003 1638 NEW HOPE ` (UNINC.) POP. 6,685 1658 dl 0 1660 45 1645 1663 .f O .03'09 W ?2N? 01 1655- p , O6 1652 00 1635 2q 1570 1570 l5 e NII-I ' Korth Carolina %. Department of Transportation g Division of Highways 10 1 : Planning & Environmental Branch " Wayne County Replace Bridge No. 164 on SR 1571 Over Stoner Creek B-3539 Figure 1 ...... •. Gay f .Cem eo Cem • _\`,o c/` PY -38 Cem o 38_0 Waltham •??`?? ???. - _ _ `Cem= ! G?? 11Z v _?_ / - Cem ?• /? Div ?j// Traler?? _'. . =Cem Park ,? C?.?\3?` ?' /?;• i?. Iro'?. ?%.J-? ' •? \\, J _ = - ? - _ ----- 36- --- - 40 ao Best Grove ?• -?? • ?• j _Sh t 1 % Cem ettling (152 35,0Sea - r/ ?' % // • '. ;Langqpn onds J _ y 100? m Sl l ' ?", l (? 'l urn - i -l1'\` V 'L`•;' • - - 4° - -J'Ch Ricky Greenleaf >>; re fa ?`-_ _ ? ?/ Ali / ? .- .` ?} 1 ? '??. ?.I_??. I ? /•' .• 39.5-'fhpro • _:C /(%?/' 1563 \ \\ ( '{ .?,?' Paoos '? / -%? /. -/• \• \• `I ( I ??? ? % of r ??'% i - i ?;` ? •36.5- •(1570 •I?. GreeCeaf, :Cem: /. \? ' f // \ Wayne s • I' ICem /Community'°" 153" I v College 38 ?? ?' 1556 37.5 \/?? .. •- _` _ ' - 1 . . 1629, 3yp. Co Y ?. • ?? _ ?e ?' \?btem ospit I ya ` /-wag ?15657.5 cock. f- ayne k :Community /0 ollege C • ? i ? c ?? .?_ ?-- _ \ ?` Park i . i i -41, Trail- ` A J • J L? \ BANK GBOINAI I -? II' _? C B r.. X560 - s Quail " y f7 ANp North briv `? •-^7 ._Ut .. Air WAT Michael F. Easley, Governor 0? ?9 William G. Ross Jr., Secretary ot QG North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources ` yr Alan W. Klimek, P.E. Director Division of Water Quality fl `? July 3, 2002 DWQ No. 021001 Wayne County Mr. William D. Gilmore, P.E., Manager Planning and Environmental Branch North Carolina Department of Transportation 1548 Mail Service Center Raleigh, North Carolina, 27699-1548 Re: Wayne County, Replacement of Bridge No. 164 on SR 1571 over Reedy Creek Branch on SR 1571 in Wayne, Federal Aid Project No. BRSTP-1571(3), State Project No. 8.2331401, TIP B-3539. APPROVAL of NEUSE RIVER BUFFER RULES AUTHORIZATION CERTIFICATE with ADDITIONAL CONDITIONS Dear Mr. Gilmore, You have our approval, in accordance with the attached conditions, to impact 0.16 acres of protected riparian buffers for the purpose of replacing Bridge Number 164 on SR 1571 over Reedy Creek Branch on SR 1571 in Wayne County. The project shall be constructed according to your application dated June 21, 2002 and any_conditions listed below. This approval shall act as your Authorization Certificate as required within the Neuse River Area Protection Rules (15A NCAC 2B .0233). In addition, you should get any other required federal, state or local permits before you go ahead with your project including (but not limited to) Sediment and Erosion Control. This approval is only valid for the purpose and design that you described in your application dated June 21, 2002. If you change your project, you must notify us and you may be required to send us a new application. If the property is sold, the new owner must be given a copy of this authorization and approval letter and is thereby responsible for complying with all conditions. For this approval to be valid, you must follow the conditions listed below. ? For the all construction impacts that do not represent permanent fill in protected riparian buffers, the site shall be graded to its preconstruction contours and revegetated with native vegetation. If you do not accept any of the conditions of this authorization, you may ask for an adjudicatory hearing. You must act within 60 days of the date that you receive this letter. To ask for a hearing, send a written petition, which conforms to Chapter 150B of the North Carolina General Statutes to the Office of Administrative Hearings, P.O. Box 27447, Raleigh, N.C. 27611-7447. This authorization and its conditions are final and binding unless you ask for a hearing. This letter completes the review of the Division of Water Quality under the "No Practical Alternatives" determination required in 15A NCAC 2B .0233(8). If you have any questions, please contact John Hennessy at 919-733-5694. Sincerel , limek, P.E. " S?aZ Off- cc: US Army Corps of Engineers Wasington Field Office DWQ Washington Regional Office File Copy Central Files CAncdot\TIP B-3539\wqc\021001buffer certification.doc N. C. Division of Water Quality 1650 Mail Service Center Raleigh, NC 27699-1650 (919) 733-1786 Customer Service: 1 800'623-7748 d,w $iAT[ a? STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION MICHAEL F. EASLEY GOVERNOR June 21, 2002 US Army Corps of Engineers , Regulatory Field Office 021001, 6508 Falls of Neuse Road, Suite 120 Raleigh, NC 27615 ATTENTION: Ms. Jean Manuele NCDOT Coordinator f`p ?y dia$ F 4J& olow R LOLM W TY SECTim LYNDo TIPPE"fT SECRETARY Subject: Nationwide 23 Permit Application for the Replacement of Bridge No. 164 over Reedy Branch on SR 1571, Wayne County. Federal Aid Project No. BRSTP- 1571(3), State Project No. 8.23 TIP Project No. B-3539. Dear Madam: Please find enclosed three copies of the project planning report for the above referenced project. The document states that Bridge No. 164 will be replaced with a th box / culvert. However, since the publication of the report, the d urtl minimize impacts to wetlands. We will now replace e existing bridge with a brid e. e new bridge will have two twelve foot lanes with 8 foot grass shou ers an 11 foot grass shoulders where guardrail is required. The typical section of the bridge is 39 feet (ft) from face of curb to face of curb and 42 ft out to out. Also noted in the attached Natural Resources Technical Report, Stoney Creel: is also known as Reedy Branch and is referred to by that name by the Division of Water Quality (DWQ) and on the USGS topographic map. Demolition: Bridge No. 164 has two spans totaling 36 ft (11 m) in length. The bridge deck and railings are composed of concrete. The substructure is composed of timber. The bridge railings and substructure will be removed without dropping components into Waters of the United States. All guidelines for bridge demolition and removal will be followed in addition to Best Management Practices for the Protection of Surface Waters. Wetlands adjacent to the bridge will be impacted by the proposed project. These impacts are 0.004 ac of fill in wetlands and 0.015 ac of mechanized clearing. This project is located in the Neuse River Basin: therefore the regulations pertaining to the Neuse River Buffer Rules will apply. There are 0.09 ac of allowable impacts to Buffer Zone One, and 0.07 ac of allowable impact to Buffer Zone Two. MAILING ADDRESS: TELEPHONE: 919-733-3141 LOCATION: NC DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION FAX: 919-733-9794 TRANSPORTATION BUILDING PROJECT DEVELOPMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS 1 SOUTH WILMINGTON STREET 1548 MAIL SERVICE CENTER WEBsITE: WWW.NCDOT.ORG RALEIGH NC RALEIGH NC 27699-1548 aX' r 't-der to minimize impacts to wetlands, buffer zones and the stream channel from ldge No. 164 the following actions have been implemented: a bridge is being built instead of a t boxncul..vert and preformed scour holes will be put in to provide non-erosive velocity and diffuse fl&vti, through the buffer. Through these design changes, impacts to buffers have been minimized t " to'the furthest extent possible in accordance with (5A NCAC 2B .0233(8). This project is being processed by the Federal Highway Administration as a "Categorical Exclusion" in accordance with 23 CFR 771.115(b). Therefore, we do not anticipate requesting an individual permit but propose to proceed under a Nationwide 23 in accordance with the Federal Register of December 13, 1996, Part VII, Volume 61, Number 241. We anticipate a 401 General Certification number 3361 will apply to this project. In accordance with 15A NCAC 2H .0501(a) we are providing two copies of this application to the North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Division of Water Quality, for their records. We request an authorization certificate from DWQ under Section 15A NCAC 2B .0233 (7) (b) of the Neuse River Buffer Rules. If you have any questions or need additional information, please contact Rachelle Beauregard at (919) 733-1 142. Sincerely, M " V. Charles Bruton, Ph.D., Manager PDEA-Office of Natural Environment w/ attachment: Mr. John Dornev, NC Division of Water Quality (2 copies) Mr. Garland Pardue, USFWS Mr. David Cox, NCWRC Mr. Greg Perfetti, P.E., Structure Design w/o attachment Mr. David Franklin, USACE, Wilmington Mr. Jay Bennett, P.E., Roadway Design Mr. Omar Sultan, Programming and TIP Ms. Deborah Barbour, PE, Highway Design Mr. David Chang, P.E., Hydraulics Ms. Susan Cauley, Roadside Environmental Mr. J.H. Trogdon, P.E., Division 4 Engineer Ms. Karen Capps, Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch 2 13 . . U N.C. DEPT. OF TRANSPORTATION DIVISION OF HIGHWAYS SCALE .0 .25 .5 Mile WAYNE COUNTY PROJECT: 8.2331401 (B-3539) PROPOSED REPLACEMENT OF BRIDGE No. 164 ON SR 1571 OVER REEDY BRANCH SHEET I OF 5 6/12/ I BUFFER LEGEND I -WLB WETLAND BOUNDARY WETLAND vw? ALLOWABLE IMPACTS ZONE I \\\ ALLOWABLE IMPACTS ZONE 2 MITIGABLE IMPACTS ZONE I ® MITIGABLE IMPACTS ZONE 2 - BZ - RIPARIAN BUFFER ZONE - BZ1 - RIPARIAN BUFFER ZONE 1 30 f t (9.2m) - BZ2 - RIPARIAN BUFFER ZONE 2 20 ft (6.1m) --? -? FLOW DIRECTION TB TOP OF BANK WE - EDGE OF WATER - -C - PROP. LIMIT OF CUT - -F - PROP. LIMIT OF FILL A PROP. RIGHT OF WAY - - NG - - NATURAL GROUND - -PL- - PROPERTY LINE -TDE- TEMP. DRAINAGE EASEMENT - PDE - PERMANENT DRAINAGE EASEMENT - EAB- EXIST. ENDANGERED ANIMAL BOUNDARY - EPB- EXIST. ENDANGERED PLANT BOUNDARY - -0- - - - WATER SURFACE x x x x x LIVE STAKES x x x BOULDER - - - CORE FIBER ROLLS ]::? PROPOSED BRIDGE PROPOSED BOX CULVERT PROPOSED PIPE CULVERT 12'-48' (DASHED LINES DENOTE PIPES EXISTNG STRUCTURES) 54" PIPES & ABOVE SINGLE TREE (, J- WOODS LINE DRAINAGE INLET ROOTWAD RIP RAP O ADJACENT PROPERTY OWNER OR PARCEL NUMBER IF AVAILABLE ? PREFORMED SCOUR HOLE (PSH) LEVEL SPREADER (LS) GRASS SWALE N. C. DEPT. OF TRANSPORTATION DIVISION OF HIGHWAYS WAYNE COUNTY PROJECT: 8.2331401 (B-3539) PROPOSED REPLACEMENT OF BRIDGE No. 164 ON SR 1671 OVER REEDY CREEK SHEET v - OF .S 7 / 12 / 02 Q' I I 3 I o Imo' I z I z O o I I z ? i O -' OUZ W I W I + 1 (X H 0 w ?ow?!w o w z [-. J ?= o000 O? Ian i ? P C 6 UA c? v, o 0 o= PoQO w w w a ? Q ?; ¢c?i mo3c av+ O N I l i I + ? Q iv?i mo3v a?Ml Q A Oa ? m X +a? O to - m I I I? I I I X \ \ X28 I I O \ \ \ \ X28\ \ tic \ O 3 \ yJiVy \ ??? flo \ \ WCL Wa ° dg / y _ ??` - t ` N w W J J \ Nm co N \ ?, 03 ~3 \ /<> 00 00 -----?f- \ -----/ oa oa \ X ? `/28 \ V \ + \ /?? Q POPO ?I ? \ i lL? CU 0003V \ \ \ \ Q ? a?n ? \ \ \ I ? ' \ 3 I Y/J O ,LL-1 x m k zza_ . 3 I of I I -? ' o I + x x ?-J ? .? , ? I r-I I O W I I, I o X ? \ --------- I I I \\ 04 N O N F- c-4 _ Z LL O ?` Q (n M Z LL U O 3: a2 z.-w 0 CD z?? p?ao Q S U ?? a d >- ¢ LL W N W W F O Z W - W W Z 0? QF-W W w L) CO (D Lu ? 0 -a OD O°' Z F W W S y CL m W ? LL U. F- LL J O J O L i l L i l L Z z , O v W m w Q m a ^ W W p N O O a O -- F W J o Q N O Z ? H ? O O W Z ? O v Q Q N o o 0 w ? M M F- . w O ? U J o 0 0 N N O Cl) N O O O U W ^ z? ? o Q O N ? U LJ.I a ? W s } ~ Z m Q N OU X X U Z 0 o ` r° rn Q O ? r _ W N U W 7 ? } O U 020 m F U O Q Z N N - ? Z O LL ci CL W O H Project No. 8.2331401 (B-3539) Property Owner List Site Parcel Name Address NO. NO. DB and Pg O Alton Waters & Peggy Otero 1271 Tommys Rd. 27534 N C . Goldsboro, . M 1241 Pg 750 Dawn Leroy 391 Woodpeck Rd. O M 1782 Pg 32 Goldsboro, N.C. 27530 1 3 O Alfr Mary ed Barnes & Barnes 1309 Tommys Rd. Goldsboro, N.C. 27534 M 861 Pg 826 Glenn H. Carter P.O. Box 10505 O DB 1714 Pg 742 Goldsboro, N.C. 27532 N.C. DEPT. OF TRANSPORTATION DIVISION OF HIGHWAYS WAYNE COUNTY PROJECT. 8.2331401 (B-3539) PROPOSED REPLACEMENT OF BRIDGE No. 164 ON SR 1571 OVER REEDY BRANCH SHEET S OF 5 6/ 12 / 02 CATEGORICAL EXCLUSION ACTION CLASSIFICATION FORM A. TIP Project No. State Project No. Federal Project No. Project Description: B-3539 8.2331401 BRSTP-1571(3) 021001 C. This project proposes to replace Bridge No. 164 over Stoney Creek in Wayne County. The bridge will be replaced with a three-barrel [12 ft (3.6 m) by 10 ft (3.0 m)] reinforced concrete box culvert at approximately the same location and roadway elevation as the existing bridge. The proposed roadway cross section will include two 12-foot (3.6-m) lanes with 8-foot (2.4-m) shoulders. Guardrail will be installed where warranted. Shoulder width will increase to 11 feet (3.3 m) where guardrail is installed. The total project length is approximately 700 feet 13.4 m). Traffic will be detoured along surrounding roads during construction. Purpose and Need: Bridge No. 164 has a sufficiency rating of 34.5 out of a possible 100. The deck and substructure of this 42-year old bridge are in poor condition. Therefore, the bridge needs to be replaced. Proposed Improvements: The following Type II improvements which apply to the project are circled: 1. Modernization of a highway by resurfacing, restoration, rehabilitation, reconstruction, adding shoulders, or adding auxiliary lanes (e.g., parking, weaving, turning, climbing). a. Restoring, Resurfacing, Rehabilitatin , and Reconstructing pavement (3R and 41Z improvements b. Widening roadway and shoulders without adding through lanes c. Modernizing gore treatments d. Constructing lane improvements (merge; auxiliary, and turn lanes) e. Adding shoulder drains f. Replacing and rehabilitating culverts, inlets, and drainage pipes, including safety treatments g Providing driveway pipes g. Performing minor bridge widening (less than one through lane) 2. Highway safety or traffic operations improvement projects including the installation of ramp metering control devices and lighting. a. Installing ramp metering devices b. Installing lights c. Adding or upgrading guardrail d. Installing safety barriers including Jersey type barriers and pier protection e. Installing or replacing impact attenuators f. Upgrading medians including adding or upgrading median barriers g. Improving intersections including, relocation and/or realignment h. Making minor roadway realignment i. Channelizing traffic j. Performing clear zone safety improvements including removing hazards and flattening slopes k. Implementing traffic aid systems, signals, and motorist aid 1. Installing bridge safety hardware including bridge rail retrofit O Bridge rehabilitation, reconstruction, or replacement or the construction of grade separation to replace existing at-grade railroad crossings. a. Rehabilitating, reconstructing, or replacing bridge approach slabs b. Rehabilitating or replacing bridge decks c. Rehabilitatin bridges including painting (no red lead paint), scour repair, ender systems, and minor structural imrovements O Repplacing a bridge (structure and/or fill) 4. Transportation corridor fringe parking facilities. 5. Construction of new truck weigh stations or rest areas. 6. Approvals for disposal of excess right-of-way or for joint or limited use of right-of-way, where the proposed use does not have significant adverse impacts. 7. Approvals for changes in access control. 8. Construction of new bus storage and maintenance facilities in areas used predominantly for industrial or transportation purposes where such construction is not inconsistent with existing zoning and located on or near a street with adequate capacity to handle anticipated bus and support vehicle traffic. 9. Rehabilitation or reconstruction of existing rail and bus buildings and ancillary facilities where only minor amounts of additional land are required and there is not a substantial increase in the number of users. 10. Construction of bus transfer facilities (an open area consisting of passenger shelters, boarding areas, kiosks and related street improvements) when located in a commercial area or other high 2 activity center in which there is adequate street capacity for projected bus traffic. 11. Construction of rail storage and maintenance facilities in areas used predominantly for industrial or transportation purposes where such construction is not inconsistent with existing zoning and where there is no significant noise impact on the surrounding community. 12. Acquisition of land for hardship or protective purposes, advance land acquisition loans under section 3(b) of the UMT Act. Hardship and protective buying will be permitted only for a particular parcel or a limited number of parcels. These types of land acquisition qualify for a CE only where the acquisition will not limit the evaluation of alternatives, including shifts in alignment for planned construction projects, which may be required in the NEPA process. No project development on such land may proceed until the NEPA process has been completed. D. Special Project Information: Estimated Costs: Total Construction $ 300,000 Off-site Detour Upgrade* $ 70,000 Right of Way 40,000 Total $ 410,000 *Off-site Detour Upgrade: The off-site detour route available for detouring traffic along surrounding roads during construction includes 0.70 miles (1.1 km) of SR 1570 (see Figure 1). According to the Division Construction Engineer for Division Four, SR 1570 needs to be widened to 22 feet (6.6 m) and resurfaced in order to maintain safety standards in detouring traffic. According to the District Engineer for Wayne County, the estimated cost for widening SR 1570 from 19 feet (5.8 m) to 22 feet (6.6 m) and resurfacing 0.70 miles (1.1 km) of the road is a proximately $70,000. The total estimated cost of the proposed alternate $410,000) remains less than the cost of an alternate including the maintenance of traffic on-site ($750,000). Estimated Traffic: Current - 3000 vpd Year 2025 - 5100 vpd TTST - 1 % Dual - 3% Proposed Typical Cross Section: The proposed ty ical cross section will include two 12-foot (3.6-m) lanes with 8-foot (2.4-mL5 shoulders. The shoulder width will increase to 11 feet (3.3 m) where guardrail is installed. Design Speed: 50 mph (80 km/h) Functional Classification: Rural Local Route Division Office Comments: The Division Four Construction Office concurs with the recommendation to replace Bride No. 164 at the existing location while detouring traffic along surrounding roads on the condition that SR 1570 be resurfaced and widened to 22 feet (6.6 m). Bridge Demolition: Bridge No. 164 has two spans totaling 36 feet (11 m) in length. The bridge deck and railings are composed of concrete. The substructure is composed of timber. The bridge railings and substructure will be removed without dropping components into Waters of the United States. The resulting temporary fill associated with the bridge deck is approximately 12 yd3. E. Threshold Criteria The following evaluation of threshold criteria must be completed for Type II actions ECOLOGICAL YES NO (1) Will the project have a substantial impact on any unique or important natural resource? X (2) Does the project involve habitat where federally listed endangered or threatened species may occur? X (3) Will the project affect anadromous fish? D (4) If the project involves wetlands, is the amount of permanent and/or temporary wetland taking less than one-third (1/3) of an acre and have all practicable measures to avoid and minimize wetland takings been ? evaluated? X (5) Will the project require the use of U. S. Forest Service lands? X (6) Will the quality of adjacent water resources be adversely impacted by proposed construction activities? X 4 (7) Does the project involve waters classified as Outstanding Water Resources (OWR) and/or High Quality Waters a X (8) Will the project require fill in waters of the United States in any of the designated mountain trout counties? X (9) Does the project involve any known underground storage tanks (UST's) or hazardous materials sites? PERMITS AND COORDINATION YES NO (10) If the project is located within a CAMA county, will the roject significantly affect the coastal zone and/or any 'Area of Environmental Concern" (AEC)? X (11) Does the roject involve Coastal Barrier Resources Act resources. X (12) Will a U. S. Coast Guard permit be required? ? X (13) Will the project result in the modification of any existing regulatory floodway? X (14) Will thefroject require any stream relocations or channel changes. ? X SOCIAL, ECONOMIC, AND CULTURAL RESOURCES YES NO (15) Will the project induce substantial impacts to planned growth or land use for the area? X (16) Will the roject require the relocation of any family or business X . (17) Will the project have a disproportionately high and adverse human health and environmental effect on any minority or low-income population? X (18) If the project involves the acquisition of right of way, is ? the amount of right of way acquisition considered minor? X (19) Will the project involve any changes in access control? X (20) Will the project substantially alter the usefulness and/or land use of adjacent property? X 5 (21) Will the project have an adverse effect on permanent local traffic patterns or community cohesiveness? X (22) Is the project included in an approved thoroughfare plan and/or Transportation Improvement Program (and is, therefore, in conformance with the Clean Air Act of ? 1990)? X (23) Is the project anticipated to cause an increase in traffic volumes? X (24) Will traffic be maintained during construction using a existing roads, staged construction, or on-site detours? X (25) If the project is a bride replacement project, will the bridge be replaced at its existing location (along the existing facility) and will all construction proposed in association with the bridge replacement project be ? f ili ? X ac ty contained on the existing (26) Is there substantial controversy on social, economic, or environmental grounds concerning the project? X (27) Is the project consistent with all Federal, State, and local ? laws relating to the environmental aspects of the project? X (28) Will the project have an "effect" on structures/ properties eligible for or listed on the National Register of Historic Places? X (29) Will the project affect any archaeological remains, which are important to history or pre-history? X* (30) Will the project require the use of Section 4(f) resources (public parks, recreation lands, wildlife and waterfowl refuges, historic sites, or historic bridges, as defined in Section 4(f) of the U. S. Department of Transportation Act of 1966)? X (31) Will the project result in any conversion of assisted public recreation sites or facilities to non-recreation uses, as defined by Section 6(f) of the Land and Water Conservation Act of 1965, as amended? X (32) Will the project involve construction in, across, or adjacent to a river designated as a component of or proposed for inclusion in the Natural System of Wild and Scenic Rivers? X 6 F. Additional Documentation Required for Unfavorable Responses in Part E (Discussion regarding all unfavorable responses in Part E should be provided below. Additional supporting documentation may be attached, as necessary.) Item 3 - Species of anadromous fish may utilize streams in the project study area. The construction guidelines outlined in NCDOT Stream Crossing Guidelines for Anadromous Fish Passage will be adhered to during the construction of this project. *Item 29 - The State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) recommended an archaeological survey for this project. Subsequently, an archaeological survey report for this project was submitted by Shane Petersen to the SHPO for review. The survey report stated that no archaeological sites were located in the project area and recommended a finding of no historic properties. However, at the time of the survey, NCDOT personnel were unable to contact the property owners of the fenced-off property to the west of Reedy Branch to gain entrance to this portion of the Area of Potential Effect (APE). Due to the high walls, fences, and barbed wire around this property, access to this area was unobtainable. Consequently, after right of way has been acquired for this project, the remaining portion of the APE will be surveyed and an addendum to the archaeological survey report will be submitted to the SHPO for review. G. CE Approval TIP Project No. State Project No. Federal-Aid Project No Project Description: B-3539 8.2331401 BRSTP-1571(3) This project proposes to replace Bridge No. 164 over Stoney Creek in Wayne County. 'The bridge will be replaced with a three-barrel [12 ft (3.6 m) by 10 ft (3.0 m)] reinforced concrete box culvert at approximately the same location and roadway elevation as the existing bridge. The proposed roadway cross section will include two 12-foot (3.6-m) lanes with 8-foot (2.4-m) shoulders. Guardrail will be installed where warranted. Shoulder width will increase to 11 feet (3.3 m) where r ardrail is installed. The total project length is approximately 700 feet 3.4 m). Traffic will be detoured along surrounding roads during construction. Categorical Exclusion Action Classification: TYPE II(A) X TYPE II(B) Approved: 121-222-00 Date /2-2z- OQ Date lz-zi- e5 Date °l/. P'Ice? Lubin V. Prevatt, P. E., Assistant Manager Project Development & Environmental Analysis Branch Vic, ), h e 1/ Wayne Elliott, Project Development Unit Head Project Development & Environmental Analysis Branch Kafen Orthner, Project Development Engineer Project Development & Environmental Analysis Branch For Type II(B) projects only: I - OZ-01. Date C i Division Administrator ederal Highway Administration 8 1 20 1642 '• 1 Uj 1623 1571 .Oe 1624 f Oh 1651 ? 1622 1570 1664 N 1556 1672 ?O Langston • . ? 1673 ?O ' S 1 7g 1571 1003 . 1620 Bridge No. 164 ,•' 1571 ap 1674 i 1556 i 1570 p? . •27 1 q9 i ' n 1638 1003 NEW HOPE (UNINC.) ,•' POP. 6,685 ?•? 1658 ?. ' 1660 1645 1645 1663 2N 1 .03 1 ? 0 0 • 1655- p , 06 1652 g ?? _-- 1635 2q North Carolina ?. Department of Transportation Diuision of Highways j Planning & Environmental Branch Wayne County Replace Bridge No. 164 on SR 1571 Over Stoney Creek W539 Figure 1 Studied Detour Route STATE a V. i D North Carolina Department of Cultural Resources James B. Hunt Jr., Governor Betty Ray McCain, Secretary July 14, 1999 MEMORANDUM TO: Karen T. Orthner Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch Division of Highways Department of Transportation FROM: David Brook /4) Deputy State Historic Preservation Officer SUBJECT: Replacement of Bridge 164 over Stoney Creek, Wayne County, B-3539, ER 99-8121 Division of Archives and History Jeffrey J. Crow, Director Thank you for your phone call of July 1, 1999, concerning the information for the above referenced project. We have reviewed our maps and files regarding the correct bridge, # 164, and find that there are no structures of historical or architectural significance in the project area. The above comments are made pursuant to Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act and the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation's Regulations for Compliance with Section 106 codified at 36 CFR Part 800. Thank you for your cooperation and consideration. If you have questions concerning the above comment, please contact Renee Gledhill-Earley, environmental review coordinator, at 919/733-4763. DB: slw cc: William D. Gilmore Barbara Church 109 East Jones Street • Raleigh, North Carolina 27601-2807 ICKJ STATE „ J. ? Q ,Y a North Carolina Department of Cultural Resources State Historic Preservation Office David L. S. Brook, Administrator James B. Hunt Jr., Governor Division of Archives and History Betty Ray McCain, Secretary Jeffrey J. Crow, Director October 25, 2000 MEMORANDUM To: William D. Gilmore, P.E., Manager Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch From: David Brook DePutY State Histol itr Preservation Officer st Re: Archaeological Survey Report, Bridge #164 on SR 1571 over Stoney Creek, B-3539, Wayne County, ER 99-8121 We have reviewed the subject survey report by Shane C. Peterson and find that the work to date meets our expectations. However, through, no fault of the field personnel, a significant portion of the project has yet to be surveyed. It appears that the property was fenced and inaccessible at the time of the field investigations. We are, therefore, holding our final comments until the entire area of potential effect has been surveyed. The above comments are made pursuant to Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act and the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation's Regulations for Compliance with Section 106 codified at 36 CFR Part 800. Thank you for your cooperation and consideration. If you have questions concerning the above comment, contact Renee Gledhill-Earley, Environmental Review Coordinator, at 919/733-4763. DB:kgc cc: Roy Shelton, FHwA Thomas Padgett, NCDOT Shane C. Peterson, NCDOT ADMINISTRATION ARCHAEOLOGY RESTORATION SURVEY & PLANNING Location 507 N. Blount St., Raleigh NC 421 N. Blount St., Raleigh NC 515 N. Blount St., Raleigh NC 515 N. Blount St., Raleigh NC Mailing Address 4617 Mail Service Center, Raleigh NC 27699-4617 4619 Mail Service Center, Raleigh NC 27699-4619 4613 Mail Service Center, Raleigh NC 27699-4613 4618 Mail Service Center, Raleigh NC 27699-4618 Telephone/Fax (919) 733-4763 • 733-8653 (919) 733-7342 • 715-2671 (919) 733-6547 • 715-4801 (919) 733-6545 • 715-4801 ® North Carolina Wildlife Resources CommissionE 312 N. Salisbury Street, Raleigh, North Carolina 27604-1188, 919-733-3391 Charles R. Fullwood, Executive Director MEMORANDUM TO: Karen Orthner, Project Planning Engineer Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch, NCDOT FROM: David Cox, Highway Project Coor ' Habitat Conservation Program DATE: February 25, 1999 SUBJECT: NCDOT Bridge Replacement Projects in Wayne County, North Carolina. TIP Nos. B-3378, B-3538 and B-3539. Biologists with the N. C. Wildlife Resources Commission (NCWRC) have reviewed the information provided and have the following preliminary comments on the subject project. Our comments are provided in accordance with provisions of the National Environmental Policy Act (42 U.S.C. 4332(2)(c)) and the Fish and Wildlife Coordination Act (48 Stat. 401, as amended; 16 U.S.C. 661-667d). On bridge replacement projects of this scope our standard recommendations are as follows: 1. We generally prefer spanning structures. Spanning structures usually do not require work within the stream and do not require stream channel realignment. The horizontal and vertical clearances provided by bridges allows for human and wildlife passage beneath the structure, does not block fish passage, and does not block navigation by canoeists and boaters. 2. Bridge deck drains should not discharge directly into the stream. 3. Live concrete should not be allowed to contact the water in or entering into the stream. 4. If possible, bridge supports (bents) should not be placed in the stream. Bridge Replacement Memo 2 February 25, 1999 5. If temporary access roads or detours are constructed, they should be removed back to original ground elevations immediately upon the completion of the project. Disturbed areas should be seeded or mulched to stabilize the soil and native tree species should be planted with a spacing of not more than 10'x10'. If possible, when using temporary structures the area should be cleared but not grubbed. Clearing the area with chain saws, mowers, bush-hogs, or other mechanized equipment and leaving- the stumps and root mat intact, allows the area to revegetate naturally and minimizes disturbed soil. 6. A clear bank (riprap free) area of at least 10 feet should remain on each side of the steam underneath the bridge. 7. In trout waters, the N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission reviews all U.S. Army Corps of Engineers nationwide and general `404' permits. We have the option of requesting additional measures to protect trout and trout habitat and we can recommend that the project require an individual `404' permit. 8. In streams that contain threatened or endangered species, NCDOT biologist Mr. Tim Savidge should be notified. Special measures to protect these sensitive species may be required. NCDOT should also contact the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service for information on requirements of the Endangered Species Act as it relates to the project. 9. In streams that are used by anadromous fish, the NCDOT official policy entitled "Stream Crossing Guidelines for Anadromous Fish Passage (May 12, 1997)" should be followed. 10. In areas with significant fisheries for sunfish, seasonal exclusions may also be recommended. If corrugated metal pipe arches or concrete box culverts are used: 1. The culvert must be designed to allow for fish passage. Generally, this means that the culvert or pipe invert is buried at least 1 foot below the natural stream bed. If multiple cells are required the second and/or third cells should be placed so that their bottoms are at stream bankful stage (similar to Lyonsfield design). This will allow sufficient water depth in the culvert or pipe during normal flows to accommodate fish movements. If culverts are long, baffle systems are required to trap gravel and provide resting areas for fish and other aquatic organisms. 2. If multiple pipes or cells are used, at least one pipe or box should be designed to remain dry during normal flows to allow for wildlife passage. 3. Culverts or pipes should be situated so that no channel realignment or widening is required. Widening of the stream channel at the inlet or outlet of structures usually causes a decrease in water velocity causing sediment deposition that will require future maintenance. 4. Riprap should not be placed on the stream bed. In most cases, we prefer the replacement of the existing structure at the same location with road closure. If road closure is not feasible, a temporary detour should be designed and located to avoid wetland impacts, minimize the need for clearing and to Bridge Replacement Memo 3 February 25, 1999 avoid destabilizing stream banks. If the structure will be on a new alignment, the old structure should be removed and the approach fills removed from the 100-year floodplain. Approach fills should be removed down to the natural ground elevation. The area should be stabilized with grass and planted with native tree species. If the area that is reclaimed was previously wetlands, NCDOT should restore the area to wetlands. If successful, the site may be used as wetland mitigation for the subject project or other projects in the watershed. Project specific comments: 1. B-3378 - Wayne County - Bridge # 34 is located over Nahunta Swamp. With the recent dam removal in the Neuse River this site now may support anadromous fish. NCDOT should follow the officially adopted document "Stream Crossing Guidelines for Anadromous Fish Passage". No in-water work should be conducted between February 15 and June 15. 2. B-3538 - Wayne County - Bridge # 296 is over the Neuse River overflow. This site is known to support anadromous fish. NCDOT should follow the officially adopted document "Stream Crossing Guidelines for Anadromous Fish Passage". No in-water work should be conducted between February 15 and June 15. 3. B-3539 - Wayne County - Bridge # 164 is over Stony Creek. This site is known to support anadromous fish. NCDOT should follow the officially adopted document "Stream Crossing Guidelines for Anadromous Fish Passage". No in-water work should be conducted between February 15 and June 15. We request that NCDOT routinely minimize adverse impacts to fish and wildlife resources in the vicinity of bridge replacements. The NCDOT should install and maintain sedimentation control measures throughout the life of the project and prevent wet concrete from contacting water in or entering into these streams. Replacement of bridges with spanning structures of some type, as opposed to pipe or box culverts, is recommended in most cases. Spanning structures allow wildlife passage along streambanks, reducing habitat fragmentation and vehicle related mortality at highway crossings. If you need further assistance or information on NCWRC concerns regarding bridge replacements, please contact me at (919) 528-9886. Thank you for the opportunity to review and comment on these projects. PROJECT COMMITMENTS Replacement of Bridge No. 164 On SR 1571 over Stoney Creek Wayne County Federal-Aid No. BRSTP-1571(3) State Project No..8.2331401 T.I.P. No. B-3539 Commitments Developed Through Project Development and Design Division Four Construction Office Prior to construction, NCDOT will widen 0.70 miles (1.1 km) of SR 1570 from 19 feet (5.8 m) to 22 feet (6.6 m) for its utilization while detouring traffic off-site during the construction. In addition, NCDOT will strengthen this portion of SR.1570 with l'/2 inches of asphalt. Roadside Environmental Unit, Division Four Construction, Structure Design NCDOT will adhere to the Best Management Practices (BMPs)'for `Bridge Demolition and Removal" during the removal of the existing, Bridge No. 164. Roadway Design Unit, Hydraulics Unit, Division Four Construction Office NCDOT will adhere to the construction guidelines `outlined in "NCDOT Stream Crossing Guidelines for Anadromous Fish Passage" during construction. No in-water work will be conducted between February 15 and June 15. Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch NCDOT archaeological personnel were unable to contact the property owners of the fenced-off property to the west of Reedy Branch to gain entrance to this portion of the Area of Potential Effect (APE) while conducting an archaeological survey. Due to the high walls, fences, and barbed wire, access to this area was unobtainable.,:Consequently, after right of way has been acquired for this project, the remaining portion of the APE - will be surveyed and an addendum to the archaeological survey report will be submitted to the SHPO for review. Green Sheet Programmatic Categorical Exclusion Page 1 of 1 December 21, 2000 d ySTNg o STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION JAMES B. HUNT JR. P.O. BOX 25201, RALEIGH, N.C. 27611-5201 DAVID MCCOY GOVERNOR SECRETARY January 31, 2000 Memorandum To: Wayne Elliott, Unit Head Bridge Replacement Unit From: Matt Haney Natural Systems Unit Subject: Proposed replacement of Bridge No. 164 on SR 1571 over Stoney Creek (Reedy Branch) in Wayne County. TIP No. B-3539; Federal Aid Project No. BRSTP-1571(3); State Project No. 8.2331401. Attention: Karen Orthner, Project Planning Engineer Bridge Replacement Unit The attached Natural Resources Technical Report provides inventories and descriptions of natural resources within the project study area, and estimations of impacts likely to occur to these resources as a result of project construction. Pertinent information concerning waters of the United States and protected species is also provided. c: File 1.0 INTRODUCTION The following Natural Resources Technical Report is submitted to assist in the preparation of a Categorical Exclusion for the proposed project. 1,1 Project Description The project involves the replacement of Bridge No. 164 on SR 1571 over Stoney Creek in Wayne County. Stoney Creek is also known as Reedy Branch, and is referred to by that name by the Division of Water Quality (DWQ) and on the USGS topographic map. The existing right-of-way (ROW) is ditch line to ditch line. The proposed right-of-way is 24 m (80 ft). Three alternates are proposed for this project: Alternate 1-Replace Bridge No. 164 with a 3 barrel [12 ft (width) by 10 ft (height)] reinforced concrete box culvert at approximately the same location and roadway elevation as the existing bridge. Maintain traffic using a temporary on-site detour structure consisting of 2 @ 72 in corrugated steel pipes to the south. The temporary structure should be three ft lower than the existing bridge. Alternate 2-Replace Bridge No. 164 with a'3 barrel [12 ft (width) by 10 ft (height)] reinforced concrete box culvert at approximately the same location and roadway elevation as the existing bridge. Detour traffic along surrounding roads during construction. Alternate 3-Replace Bridge No. 164 with a pre-cast culvert in approximately the same location and roadway elevation as the existing bridge. Detour traffic along surrounding roads during construction. Bridge No. 164 has two spans totaling 11 m (36 ft) in length. The bridge deck and railings are composed of concrete. The substructure is composed of timber. The bridge railings and substructure will be removed without dropping components into waters of the U.S. The resulting temporary fill associated with the bridge deck is approximately 9 m3 (12 yd3). 1.2 Purpose The purpose of this technical report is to inventory, catalog and describe the various natural resources likely to be impacted by the proposed action. This report also attempts to identify and estimate the probable consequences of the anticipated impacts to these resources. Recommendations are made for measures which will minimize resource impacts. These descriptions are relevant only in the context of existing design concepts. If design parameters and criteria change, additional field investigations will need to be conducted. North Carolina Department of Transportation Division of Highways Planning & Environmental Branch 'Wayne County Replace Bridge No. 164 on SR 15 71 (h.er Stoney Creek B-?O?9 Figure 1 3 1.3 MethodoloQv Research of the project study area was conducted prior to field investigations. Information sources used in the pre-field investigation include: U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) quadrangle map (Northeast Goldsboro, NC), NCDOT aerial photomosaics of the project study area (1:1200) and Soil Survey of Wayne County (USDA, 1974). Water resource information was obtained from publications of the North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources (NCDENR) (2000) and North Carolina Department of Environment, Health, and Natural Resources (NCDEHNR) (1993). Information concerning the occurrence.of federal and state protected species in the study area was gathered from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) list of protected and candidate species (December 20, 1999) and from the North Carolina Natural Heritage Program (NHP) database of rare species and unique habitats. General field surveys were conducted along the proposed alignment by NCDOT biologists Matt Haney and Chris Murray on December 1, 1999. Plant communities and their associated wildlife were identified and recorded. Wildlife identification involved using one or more of the following observational techniques: active searching and capture, visual observations (binoculars), identifying characteristic signs of wildlife (sounds, scat, tracks and burrows). Jurisdictional wetland determinations were performed utilizing delineation criteria prescribed in the "Corps of Engineers Wetland Delineation Manual" (Environmental Laboratory, 1987). Definitions for areal descriptions used in this report are as follows: Project Study Area denotes the area bound by proposed ROW limits; Project Vicinity describes an area extending 0.8 km (0.5 mi) on all sides of the project study area; and Project Region is equivalent to an area represented by a 7.5 minute USGS quadrangle map centered on the project. 1.4 . Qualifications of Investigators Investigator: Christopher A. Murray Education: M.S. Coastal Ecology, Univ. North Carolina at Wilmington, North Carolina B.S. Zoology, St. Cloud State University, St. Cloud, Minnesota Certification: Professional Wetland Scientist No. 1130 Experience: N.C. Dept. of Transportation 1995-present Environmental Investigations, P.A. 199271.994 Environmental Services, Inc. 1991-1992 Expertise: Wetland Delineation, NEPA Investigations, and Protected Species Surveys Investigator: Matthew M. Haney Education: B.S. Natural Resources-Ecosystem Assessment. North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina Experience: N.C. Forest Service May 1998-August 1998 U.S. Forest Service, Center for Forested Wetlands Research May 1997- August 1997 2.0 PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS Soil and water resources, which occur in the project study area, are discussed below. Soil types and availability of water directly influence composition and distribution of flora and fauna in any biotic community. Wayne County lies in the Coastal Plain Physiographic Province. Land in the project study area is characterized as relatively flat. The project is located in a rural area of Wayne County surrounded by residential houses, upland forests, and swamp forests. The project study area is located approximately 31 in (100 ft) above mean sea level. 2.1 Soils Four mapped soil units are located in the project study area and include Johnston loam, 0-2% slopes, Kalmia loamy sand, 10-15% slopes, Craven sandy loam, 6-10% slopes, eroded, and Norfolk loamy sand, 6-10% slopes. These soil units are discussed below: - Johnston loam, 0-2% slope is a very poorly drained, alluvial soil on flood plains. Surface runoff is very slow and permeability is moderate. The water table is usually high with water ponding in low places and very frequent floods. Johnston loam is a hydric soil. - Kalmia loamy sand, 10-15% slope is a well-drained soil on short sides of divides. Surface runoff is rapid and permeability is moderate. Kalmia loamy sand, 10-15% slope is a non-hydric soil. - Craven sandy loam, 6-10% slope, eroded is a moderately well drained soil on short sides of divides. Surface runoff is rapid and permeability is moderately slow. Craven sandy loam, 6-10% slope, eroded is a non-hydric soil. - Norfolk loamy sand, 6-10% slope is a well-drained soil on short sides of divides. Surface runoff is medium and permeability is moderate. Norfolk loamy sand, 6-10% slope is a non-hydric soil. 2.2 Water Resources This section contains information concerning those water resources likely to be impacted by the project. Water resource information encompasses the resources' relationship to major water systems, its physical aspects, Best Usage Classification, and water quality of the resources. Probable impacts to these water bodies are also discussed, as are means to minimize impacts. Z-2.1 Subbasin Characteristics Water resources located within the project study area lie in the Neuse Mainstem- Goldsboro to Craven County Watershed (Subbasin 03-04-05) of the Neuse River Drainage Basin (N.C. Hydrologic Unit 03020202). The Neuse River Basin is the third largest river basin in the state, covering 6,192 square miles (NCDEHNR, 1993). 2.2.2 Stream Characteristics The proposed project crosses Stoney Creek (Reedy Branch). There is no defined channel at the project study site, so width could not by determined. The depth of Stoney Creek at the project study site is approximately 3-5 ft. The substrate is composed of sand. 2.2.3 Best Usage Classification Streams have been assigned a best usage classification by the NCDENR (2000). The best usage classification of Stoney Creek (Reedy Branch) (Index No. 27-62) is C NSW. Class C waters are suitable for aquatic life propagation and survival, fishing, wildlife, secondary recreation, and agriculture. Nutrient Sensitive Waters (NSW) is a supplemental classification intended for waters needing additional nutrient management due to their being subject to excessive growth of microscopic or macroscopic vegetation. No water resources classified as High Quality Waters (HQW's), Water Supplies (WS-I or WS-II), or Outstanding Resource Waters (ORW's) are located within 1.6 km (1.0 mi) of the project study area. 2.2.4 Water Quality The DWQ has initiated a whole basin approach to water quality management for the 17 river basins within the state. To accomplish this goal the DWQ collects biological, chemical and physical data that can be used in basinwide assessment and planning. All basins are reassessed every five years. The Neuse River in this subbasin has maintained Good-Fair to Good water quality since 1983 (NCDEHNR, 1993). Prior to the implementation of the basinwide approach to water quality management, the Benthic Macroinvertebrate Ambient Network assessed water quality by sampling for benthic macroinvertebrate organisms at fixed monitoring sites throughout the state. Many benthic macroinvertebrates have stages in their life cycle that can last from six months to a year. Therefore, the adverse effects of a toxic spill will not be overcome until the next generation. Different taxa of macroinvertebrates have different tolerances to pollution, thereby, long term changes in water quality conditions can be identified by population shifts from pollution sensitive to pollution tolerant organisms (and vice versa). Overall, the species present, the population diversity and the biomass 0 are reflections of long term water quality conditions. There are no BMAN sampling stations in the project vicinity (NCDEHNR, 1993). Point sources refer to discharges that enter surface water through a pipe, ditch, or other defined points of discharge. Point source dischargers located throughout North Carolina are permitted through the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) program. Any discharger is required to register for a permit. There are no NPDES sites located within 1.6 km (1.0 mi) of the project study area. Non-point source refers to runoff that enters surface waters through stormwater flow or no defined point of discharge. There are many types of land use activities that can serve as sources of non-point source pollution including land development, construction, crop production, animal feeding lots, failing septic systems, landfills, roads, and parking lots. Sediment and nutrients are major pollution-causing substances associated with non-point source pollution. Others include fecal coliform bacteria, heavy metals, oil and grease, and any other substance that may be washed off the ground or removed from the atmosphere and carried into surface waters. Excluding road runoff and sediment/pesticide runoff from cropland in the project vicinity, there were no identifiable non-point sources that could be observed during the site visit. 2.2.5 Summary of Anticipated Impacts to Water Resources Construction of this project will result in impacts to water resources. Land clearing and grubbing activities from project construction will directly result in soil erosion leading to increased sedimentation and turbidity in Stoney Creek. These effects may extend downstream for considerable distance with decreasing intensity. Removal of streamside vegetation will have a negative effect on water quality. The vegetation typically shades the water's surface from sunlight, thus moderating water temperature. The removal of streamside canopy during construction will result in fluctuating water temperatures. An increase in water temperature results in a decrease in dissolved oxygen because warmer water holds less oxygen. Streambank vegetation also stabilizes streambanks and reduces sedimentation by trapping soil particles. In order to minimize impacts to water resources in the entire impact area, NCDOT's Best Management Practices (BMPs) for the Protection of Surface Waters must be strictly enforced during the entire life of the project. The NCDOT, in cooperation with DEM and DWQ, has developed a sedimentation control program for highway projects which adopts formal BMPs for the protection of surface waters. There is potential for components of Bridge No. 164 to be dropped into waters of the United States during construction. The resulting temporary fill associated with the bridge removal is identified in Section 1.1. NCDOT's Best Management Practices for Bridge Demolition and Removal (BMP-BDR) must be applied for the removal of this bridge. Erosion and sedimentation will be most pronounced as a result of disturbance of the stream banks and substrate. Sedimentation from these activities may be high during construction, but should diminish rapidly following project completion if exposed soils are revegetated and streambanks stabilized with native vegetation. Wooded buffers effectively trap organic nutrients and sediments before they reach water resources. This will increase long-term water quality and provide wildlife habitat. Species of anadromous fish may utilize streams in the project study area. Construction guidelines outlined in NCDOT Stream Crossing Guidelines for Aadoomous Fish Passage must be adhered to for this project. These guidelines are applicable for all projects crossing perennial or intermittent tributaries (delineated on a USGS topographic map) located below the fall line. The purpose of this document is to provide guidance to NCDOT to ensure that replacement of existing and new highway stream crossing structures will not impede the movement of anadromous fish. 3.0 BIOTIC RESOURCES Biotic resources include aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems. This section describes those ecosystems encountered in the study area, as well as the relationships between fauna and flora within these ecosystems. Composition and distribution of biotic communities throughout the project area are reflective of topography, hydrologic influences and past and present land uses. Descriptions of the terrestrial systems are presented in the context of plant community classifications. Dominant flora and fauna likely to occur in each community are described and discussed. Fauna observed during field investigations are denoted with an asterisk (*) Scientific nomenclature and common names (when applicable) are provided for each animal and plant species described. Subsequent references to the same organism will include the common name only. Plant community descriptions are based on a classification system utilized by the North Carolina Natural Heritage Program (NHP) (Schafale and Weakley 1990). When appropriate, community classifications were modified to better reflect field observations. Vascular plant names follow nomenclature found in Radford et al. (1968). Habitats used by terrestrial wildlife and aquatic organisms, as well as expected population distributions, were determined through field observations, evaluation of available habitat, and supportive documentation (Fish, 1960, Martof et al., 1980; Webster et al., 1985; Rohde et al., 1994; Potter et al., 1980). 3.1 Terrestrial Communities T hree terrestrial communities are identifiable in the project study area: disturbed community, bottomland hardwood swamp, and mixed hardwood forest. Much of the wildlife in the project study area likely use various communities for forage, cover, and nesting habitat. Many species are highly adaptive and may utilize the edges of forests and clearings. In addition, many species utilize both aquatic and terrestrial habitats, such that both are required for survival and reproduction. 3.1.1 Maintained/Disturbed Community This community encompasses four types of habitats that have recently been or are currently impacted by human disturbance: roadside shoulder, maintained yard, abandoned field/trailer park, and abandoned cropland. Roadside shoulder is a regularly maintained habitat that is kept in a low-growing, early successional state. Herbs, grasses and vines located here include fescue (Festuca sp.), vetch (Vicia sp.), English plantain (Plantago lanceolata), henbit (Lamium amplexicaule), Japanese honeysuckle (Lonicera japonica), wild onion (Allium canadense), Carolina geranium (Geranium carolinianum), buttercup (Ranunculus sp.), and trailing dewberry (Rubus flagellaris). Maintained yard is also a regularly maintained habitat. Species located here include fescue, dandelion (Taraxacum offrcinale), wild onion, English plantain, and curly dock (Rumex sp.). Abandoned field/trailer park is located in the northeast quadrant of the project study area. Herbs, grasses, and vines located here include goldenrod (Solidago sp.), Japanese honeysuckle, broom sedge (Andropogon virginicus), blackberry (Rubus sp.), greenbrier (Smilax rotundifolia), giant cane (Arundinaria gigantea), and poison ivy (Rhus radicans). Trees and shrubs observed in this community include silverling (Baccharis halimifolia), red cedar (Juniperus virginiana), sweetgum (Liquidambar styraciua), red maple (Acer rubrum), sumac (Rhus glabra), redbud (Cercis canadensis), green ash (Fraxinus pennsylvanica), and loblolly pine (Pinus taeda). Abandoned cropland is located in the northwest quadrant of the project study area. Herbs, grasses, and vines located here include goldenrod, broom sedge, foxtail grass (Alopecurus sp.), aster (Aster sp.), and fescue. The sapling and shrub layers consist of sweetgum, privet (Ligustrum sp.), and china-berry (Melia azedarach). 3.1.2 Bottomland Hardwood Swamp This wetland community is located along Stoney Creek on the north side of the bridge. The herbaceous layer is comprised of greenbrier, crossvine (Bignonia capreolata), and seed box (Ludiwgea sp.). Trees and shrubs located in this community include yellow poplar (Liriodendron tulipifera), sweetgum, river birch (Betula nigra), green ash, red maple, laurel oak (Quercus laurifolia), privet, giant cane, swamp chestnut oak (Quercus michauxii), American holly (Ilex opaca), elderberry (Sambucus canadensis), silky dogwood (Cornus amomum), water oak (Quercus nigra), blackgum (ltiyssa sylvatica), wax myrtle (Myrica cerifera), and tag alder (Alnus serrulata). 9 3.1.3 Mixed Hardwood Forest This upland community is located adjacent to the bottomland hardwood swamp. The herbaceous layer consists of Japanese honeysuckle, poison ivy, dog fennel (Eupatorium capillifolium), and pokeweed (Phytolacca americana). Trees and shrubs observed in this community include green ash, laurel oak, sweetgum, giant cane, black willow (Salix nigra), arrowwood (Viburnum sp.), American elm (Ulmus americana), silverling, yellow poplar, black cherry (Prunus serotina), and sweetbay (Magnolia virginiana). 3.2 Aquatic Communities One aquatic community type, coastal plain perennial stream, is located in the project study area. Physical characteristics of the surface waters and condition of the water influence the faunal composition of the aquatic communities. Perennial streams support an assemblage of fauna that require a constant source of flowing water, as compared to intermittent or standing water. Amphibians and reptiles commonly observed in and adjacent to swamps include three-lined salamander (Eurycea guttolineata), two-lined salamander (E. bislineata), Mabee's salamander (Ambystoma mabeei), green frog (Rana clamitans), pickeral frog (R. palustris), spring peeper (Hyla crucifer), and banded water snake (Nerodia fasciata'). Stoney Creek provides habitat for chain pickerel (Esox niger), redbreast sunfish (Lepomis auritus), golden shiner (Notemigonus crysoleucas), madtom (Notorus sp.), and eastern mosquitofish (Gambusia holbrooki). 3.3 Faunal Component Much of the wildlife in the project area likely use various communities for forage, cover, and nesting habitat. Many species are highly adaptive and may utilize the edges of forests and clearings. In addition, many species utilize both aquatic and terrestrial habitats, such that both are required for survival and reproduction. The raccoon* (Procyon lotor) is a carnivore often observed along wetland habitats to moist upland forests as well as urban areas. A raccoon track was observed in the bottomland hardwood swamp. White-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) are occasionally observed along broken areas of mixed young forests, old fields, and crop lands. These two ubiquitous species are often observed as roadkill on adjacent roadways. The red fox* (Vulpes vulpes) prefers areas with interspersed croplands, woodlots, and old fields. This species was observed as roadkill on the roadside shoulder. The beaver* (Castor canaclensis) lives along small wooded streams which it often dams to form shallow impoundments called beaver ponds. Stripped bark was observed in the bottomland hardwood swamp and is an indicator of beaver habitat. Pigs* (Sus scrofa) are i0 used for livestock purposes, but sometimes forage on vegetation in bottomland hardwood forests along coastal plain rivers. Two pigs were observed foraging in the bottomland hardwood swamp. The least shrew (Cryptotis parva), eastern harvest mouse (Reithrodontomys humulis), and hispid cotton rat (Sigmodon hispidus) frequent disturbed or open areas dominated by herbaceous vegetation which provide foraging and nesting habitat. Eastern cottontails (Sylvilagus floridanus) prefer brushy edges where they primarily feed on woody perennials. Mammals commonly occurring in forested habitats include southern short-tailed shrew (Blarina carolinensis), gray squirrel (Sciurus carolinensis), and white-footed mouse (Peromyscus leucopus). Shrews and smaller mice prefer forests with a thick layer of leaf litter. Eastern fence lizard (Sceloporus undulatus) and five-lined skink (Eumeces fasciatus) inhabit open habitats with plenty of sunlight. The slimy salamander (Plethodon glutinosus) inhabits woodlands where they are known to forage at night and spend the day in burrows under logs, stones, and leaf litter. The southern dusky salamander (Desmognathus auriculatus) is abundant under leaf litter and rotten logs in swamps throughout the coastal plain. The spring peeper (Hyla crucifer) inhabits woodlands where it may be observed under forest litter or brushy undergrowth. Eastern box turtles (Terrapene carolina) are commonly observed throughout forested habitats where they feed on plants and small animals. The common crow (Corvus brachyrhynchos) is common in abandoned fields. Blue jays (Cyannocitta cristata) and northern mockingbirds (Mimus polyglottos) frequent maintained yards. The pileated woodpecker (Dryocopus pileatus), red-bellied woodpecker (Melanerpes carolinus), northern parula (Parula americana), and blue-gray gnatcatcher (Polioptila caerulea) are often observed in wet, deciduous woods. 3.4 Anticipated Impacts to Biotic Resources Construction of the subject project will have various impacts on the biotic resources described. Any construction related activities in or near these resources have the potential to impact biological functions. This section quantifies and qualifies impacts to the natural resources in terms of the ecosystems affected. Temporary and permanent impacts are considered here as well. Calculated impacts to terrestrial communities reflect the relative abundance of each community (Table 1). Project construction will result in the clearing and degradation of portions of these communities. Estimated impacts are derived using the entire ROW width and length presented in Section 1.1. Usually, project construction does not require the entire ROW width, therefore, actual impacts may be considerably less. 11 Table 1. Anticipated Impacts to Biotic Communities. Community Alternate 1 Alternate 2 Alternate 3 In Place Temporary In Place In Place Replacement Detour Replacement Replacement Disturbed Community 0.3/0.8 0.10/0.25 0.3/0.8 0.3/0.8 Bot. Hardwood Swamp 0.04/0.09 0.0510.10 0.04/0.09 0.04/0.09 Mixed Hardwood Forest 0.03/0.07 0.03/0.07 0.03/0.07 0.03/0.07 TOTAL (see note) 0.37/0.96 0.18/0.42 0.37/0.96 0.37/0.96 Notes: -Values are cited in hectares/acres -Total impacts may not equal the sum impacts associated with each specific community due to rounding of significant digits. -Alternate 1 In Place Replacement values indicate permanent impacts associated with the removal and replacement of Bridge No. 164 and adjacent roadway approaches. -Alternate 1 Temporary Detour values indicate temporary and permanent impacts associated with the placement and subsequent removal of the temporary bridge and roadway approaches. -Alternate 2 In Place Replacement values indicate permanent impacts associated with the removal and replacement of Bridge No. 164 and adjacent roadway approaches. -Alternate 3 In Place Replacement values indicate permanent impacts associated with the removal and replacement of Bridge No. 164 and adjacent roadway approaches. The biotic communities found within the project area will be altered as a result of project construction. Terrestrial communities serve as nesting, foraging, and shelter habitat for fauna. A majority of the project study area is located in disturbed habitat. This area is currently in a highly altered state and plants and animals here are well adapted to disturbed conditions. Flora and fauna occurring in the disturbed community are common throughout North Carolina because of their ability to persist in disturbed habitats. Moreover, similar additional disturbed habitats will be re-established after project construction. Construction activities will impact the water resources located in the project area as well as those downstream. Increased sedimentation and siltation is often directly attributable to construction activities. The suspended particles will clog the feeding mechanisms of benthic organisms, fish, and amphibians. These impacts eventually are magnified throughout the food chain and ultimately affect organisms located in higher trophic levels. Strict erosion and sedimentation controls must be maintained during the entire life of the project. Construction activities often affect water level and flow due to interruption and/or additions to surface and groundwater flow. The change in water level may severely impact spawning activities of mobile and sessile organisms. Construction runoff and l? highway spills may result in mortality to aquatic species inhabiting the water resources located in the project area. Quantitative differences with regard to cumulative impacts in the proposed impact width exist between alternatives. Alternatives 2 and 3 have reduced wetland impacts and quantitative cumulative biotic community impacts when compared to Alternative 1. 4.0 JURISDICTIONAL ISSUES This section provides descriptions, inventories and impact analysis pertinent to two important issues--Waters of the United States and Protected and Rare Species. 4.1 Waters of the United States Surface waters and jurisdictional wetlands fall under the broad category of "Waters of the United States," under 33 CFR §328.3(a). Wetlands, defined in 33 CFR §328.3 (b), are those areas that are inundated or saturated by surface or ground water at a frequency and duration sufficient to support, and under normal circumstances do support, a prevalence of vegetation typically adapted to life in saturated conditions. Surface waters are waters used in interstate or foreign commerce, waters subject to the ebb and flow of tides, all interstate waters including interstate wetlands, and all other waters such as intrastate lakes, rivers, and streams. Any action that proposes to place fill material into these areas falls under the jurisdiction of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) under Section 404 of the Clean Water Act (CWA) (33 U.S.C. 1344). 4. 1.1 Characteristics of Wetlands and Surface Waters Stoney Creek is considered jurisdictional surface waters under Section 404 of the Clean Water Act. This system is thoroughly described in Section 2.2.2. Potential jurisdictional wetland communities were examined pursuant to the 1987 U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Wetland Delineation Manual. The manual is a technical guideline for wetlands. According to the manual, an area is considered a wetland if three parameters, hydric soils, hydrophytic vegetation, and hydrologic characteristics concurrently exist. Based upon the results of the field investigation, the project area contains a jurisdictional wetland. Two systems are currently being used in North Carolina to describe or rate wetlands: a classification system developed by Cowardin et al. (1979) and a numerical rating system developed by the North Carolina Division of Environmental Management (DEM, 1995). The Cowardin system provides a uniform approach in describing concepts and terms used in classifying wetland systems. The DEM rating scale gauges wetland quality using a numerical rating system (0-100 with 100 being the highest value) that emphasizes water storage, bank/shoreline stabilization, pollutant removal, wildlife habitat, aquatic life values, and recreation/education potential. The DEM rating may be 13 revised when a wetland delineation is conducted at the project study area. A description of the wetland site, Cowardin system classification and DEM rating are presented below. Hardwood Forest. Irregularly Flooded: Dominant plants located here are listed in Section 3.1.2. The clay loam soil at this site exhibited a soil color of l OYR 4/2 with few distinct mottles with color of 7:5YR 4/6 in the A layer. Observations of wetland hydrology include inundation, saturation, drift lines, sediment deposits, water-stained leaves, and drainage pattern in wetland. This variation has a Cowardin Classification of PFO1Cd and a DEM rating of 69. 4.1.2 Summary of Anticipated Impacts The proposed project will cross jurisdictional surface waters and wetlands. Both temporary and permanent impacts to the bottomland hardwood swamp are clearly summarized in Table 1. Stoney Creek is proposed to be bridged. Approximately 24 m (80 ft) of Stoney Creek is located in the ROW of the In Place Replacement associated with Alternates 1, 2, and 3. Approximately 18 in (60 ft) of Stoney Creek is located in the ROW of the Temporary Detour associated with Alternate 1. The amount of wetland and surface water impacts may be modified by any changes in roadway design. There is the potential that components of the deck of Bridge No. 164 will be dropped into waters of the U.S. during construction. The resulting temporary fill associated with the concrete deck associated with Bridge No. 164 is approximately 9 m' (12 yd3). This project can be classified as Case 2, allowing no work at all in the water during moratorium periods associated with fish migration, spawning, and larval recruitment into nursery areas. Construction impacts can severely affect the functions that wetlands perform in an ecosystem. Wetlands influence regional water flow regimes by intercepting and storing storm water runoff which ultimately reduces the danger of flooding in surrounding and downstream areas. Wetlands have been documented to remove organic and inorganic nutrients and toxic materials from water that flows through them. The presence of wetlands adjacent to roadways can act as filters to runoff pollutants and toxins. 4. 1.3 Permits Impacts to surface waters and wetlands are anticipated from project construction. In accordance with provisions of the Clean Water Act §404, a permit will be required from the USACE for discharge of dredge or fill material into "Waters of the United States." Due to surface water impacts expected at the project study area, a Nationwide 23 Permit will likely be necessary for this project. Final decision concerning applicable permits rests with the USACE. 14 This project will require a 401 Water Quality Certification from the DWQ. Section 401 of the C WA requires that the state issue or deny water certification for any federally permitted or licensed activity that may result in a discharge to Waters of the United States. The issuance of a 401 permit from the DWQ is a prerequisite to issuance of a Section 404 or CAMA permit. 4.1.4 Mitigation The COE has adopted, through the Council of Environmental Quality (CEQ), a wetland mitigation policy which embraces the concept of "no net loss of wetlands" and sequencing. The purpose of this policy is to maintain and restore the chemical, biological and physical integrity of Waters of the United States, specifically wetlands. Mitigation of wetland impacts has been defined by the CEQ to include: avoiding impacts (to wetlands), minimizing impacts, rectifying impacts, reducing impacts over time and compensating for impacts (40 CFR 1508.20). Each of these three aspects (avoidance, minimization and compensatory mitigation) must be considered sequentially. 4.1.4.1 Avoidance Avoidance mitigation examines all appropriate and practicable possibilities of averting impacts to Waters of the United States. According to a 1990 Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) between the Environmental Protection Agency and the COE, in determining "appropriate and practicable" measures to offset unavoidable impacts, such measure should be appropriate to the scope and degree of those impacts and practicable in terms of cost, existing technology and logistics in light of overall project purposes. 4.1.4.2 Minimization Minimization includes the examination of appropriate and practicable steps to reduce the adverse impacts to Waters of the United States. Implementation of these steps will be required through project modifications and permit conditions. Impacts to the wetland could be minimized by: (1) decreasing the footprint of the proposed project through the reduction of ROW widths, fill slopes and/or road shoulder widths; (2) installation of temporary silt fences, earth berms, and. temporary ground cover during construction; (3) strict enforcement of sedimentation and erosion control BMPs for the protection of surface waters and wetlands; and (4) reduction of clearing and grubbing activity in and adjacent to water bodies and wetlands. Impacts to the bottomland hardwood swamp can be minimized by choosing Alternate 2 or 3 rather than Alternate 1 since Alternate 1 involves construction in a larger area of the swamp than the other two alternates. 4.1.4.3 Compensatory Mitigation Compensatory mitigation is not normally considered until anticipated impacts to Waters of the United States have been avoided and minimized to the maximum extent 15 possible. It is recognized that "no net loss of wetlands" functions and values may not be achieved in each and every permit action. Appropriate and practicable compensatory mitigation is required for unavoidable, adverse impacts which remain after all appropriate and practicable minimization has been required. Compensatory actions often include restoration, creation and enhancement of Waters of the United States. Such actions should be undertaken in areas adjacent to or contiguous to the discharge site. DWQ regulations state that fill or alteration of more than 0.45 ha (1.0 ac) of wetland will require compensatory mitigation in accordance with 15A NCAC 211 .0506(a) and (h) and fill or alteration of more than 450 linear in (150 linear ft) of streams may require compensatory mitigation in accordance with 15A NCAC 211 .0506(a) and (h). If these acreage and linear thresholds are exceeded from project construction, NCDOT will follow these regulations. 4.2 Protected and Rare Species Some populations of fauna and flora have been in, or are in, the process of decline either due to natural forces or their inability to coexist with human activities. Federal law (under the provisions of the Endangered Species Act [ESA] of 1973, as amended) requires that any action, likely to adversely affect a species classified as federally- protected, be subject to review by the FWS. Other species may receive additional protection under separate state laws. 4.2.1 Federally-protected Species Plants and animals with federal classifications of Endangered, Threatened, Proposed Endangered, and Proposed Threatened are protected under provisions of Section 7 and Section 9 of the ESA. As of December 20, 1999, there is one federally-protected species listed for Wayne County. The red-cockaded woodpecker (Picoides borealis) has a status of endangered. Endangered species are a taxon in danger of extinction throughout all or a significant portion of its range. red-cockaded woodpecker Animal Family: Picidae Date Listed: October 13, 1970 The adult red-cockaded woodpecker (RCW) has a plumage that is entirely black and white except for small red streaks on the sides of the nape in the male. The back of the RCW is black and white with horizontal stripes. The breast and underside of this woodpecker are white with streaked flanks. The RCW has a large white cheek patch surrounded by the black cap, nape, and throat. The RCW uses open old growth stands of southern pines, particularly longleaf pine (Pinus palarstris), for foraging and nesting habitat. A forested stand must contain at least 50% pine, lack a thick understory, and be contiguous with other stands to be 16 appropriate habitat for the RCW. These birds nest exclusively in trees that are > 60 years old and are contiguous with pine stands at least 30 years of age. The foraging range of the RCW is up to 200.0 hectares (500.0 acres). This acreage must be contiguous with suitable nesting sites. These woodpeckers nest exclusively in living pine trees and usually in trees that are infected with the fungus that causes red-heart disease. Cavities are located in colonies from 3.6-30.3 in (12-100 ft) above the ground and average 9.1- 15.7 m (30-50 ft) high. They can be identified by a large incrustation of running sap that surrounds the tree. The RCW lays its eggs in April, May, and June; the eggs hatch approximately 38 days later. BIOLOGICAL CONCLUSION: NO EFFECT Suitable nesting and foraging habitat for red-cockaded woodpeckers, in the form of old growth pine forests, is not located in the project study area. There were no pines of sufficient size and density located in the project study area or nearby vicinity. A review of NHP database of rare species and unique habitats revealed no known populations of RCW within 1.0 km (1.6 mi) of the project study area. Impacts to this species will not occur from project construction. 4.2.2 Federal Species of Concern Federal Species of Concern (F SC) are those plant and animal species which may or may not be listed in the future. Five FSC are listed for Wayne County (Table 2). Table 2. Federal Species of Concern. Common Name Scientific Name NC Habitat Status Rafinesque's big-eared bat Corynorhinus (=Plecotus) SC (PT) Yes rafinesquii Southern hognose snake Heterodon simus SR No (PSC) Pinewoods shiner Lythrurus matutinus SR Yes Atlantic pigtoe Fusconaia masoni T (PE) Yes Pondspice Litsea aestivalis C No Threatened (T) are native or once-native species of wild plant or animal which is likely to become an endangered species within the foreseeable future throughout all or a significant portion of its range. An Endangered (E) species is any native species or once- native species of fauna or flora whose continued existence as a viable component of the State's flora or fauna is determined to be in jeopardy. Significantly rare (SR) species are very rare in North Carolina, generally with 1-20 populations in the state. Special Concern (SC) species require monitoring but which may be collected and sold under regulations adopted under provisions of the Plant Protection and Conservation Act. Candidate (C) species are very rare in North Carolina, with 1-20 populations in the state, generally substantially reduced in numbers by habitat destruction. Proposed (P ) species have been 17 formally proposed for listing as Endangered. Threatened, or Special Concern. but has not yet completed the legally mandated listing process. FSC species are not afforded federal protection under the ESA and are not subject to any of its provisions, including Section 7, until they are formally proposed or listed as Threatened or Endangered. Organisms which are listed as Endangered (E), Threatened (T) or Special Concern (SC) by the NHP list of Rare Plant and Animal species are afforded state protection under the State ESA and the North Carolina Plant Protection and Conservation Act of 1979; however, the level of protection given to state listed species does not apply to NCDOT activities. A review of the NHP database of rare species and unique habitats did not reveal the presence of these species or unique habitats in or near the project study area. Surveys for the above-mentioned species were not conducted during the site visit, nor were these species observed during the site visit. 5.0 References Amoroso; J.L. (ed.) 1999. Natural Heritage Program List of the Rare Plant Species of North Carolina. North Carolina Natural Heritage Program. Raleigh, NC. Cowardin, L.M., V. Carter, F.C. Goulet, and E.T. LaRoe. 1979. Classifications of Wetlands and Deepwater Habitats of'the United States. U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C. Environmental Laboratory. 1987. Corps of Engineers Wetlands Delineation 1ldanual, Technical Report Y-87-1. U.S. Army Engineer Waterways Experiment Station, Vicksburg, MS. Fish, F.F. 1968. A Catalog of the Inland Fishing Waters of North Carolina. North Carolina Wildlife Resource Commission, Division of Inland Fisheries. LeGrand, Jr., H.E. and S.P. Hall. (eds.) 1999. Natural Heritage Program List of the Rare Animal Species of North Carolina. North Carolina Natural Heritage Program. Raleigh, NC. Martof, B.S., W.M. Palmer, J.R. Bailey, and J.R. Harrison III. 1980. Amphibians and. Reptiles of the Carolinas and Virginia. The University of North Carolina Press. Chapel Hill, NC. North Carolina Division of Environment, Health, and Natural Resources, Division of Environmental Management. 1993. Neuse River Basinwide Water Quality Management Plan. Raleigh, NC. North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Division of Water e,F 13 Quality. 2000. Stream Classifications Internet Home Page. Potter, E.F., J.F. Parnell, and R.P. Teulings. 1980. Birds of the Carolinas. The University of North Carolina Press. Chapel Hill, NC. Radford, A.E., H.E. Ahles, and G.R. Bell. 1968. Manual of the Vascular Flora of'the Carolinas. The University of North Carolina Press. Chapel Hill, NC. Rohde, F.C., R.G. Arndt, D.G. Lindquist, and J.F. Parnell. Freshwater Fishes of the Carolinas, Virginia, Maryland, & Delaware. The University of North Carolina Press. Chapel Hill, NC. Schafale, M.P. and A.S. Weakley. 1990. Classification of the Natural Communities of North Carolina (3rd Approx.). North Carolina Natural Heritage Program. United States Department of Agriculture. 1974. Soil Survey of Wayne County. Soil Conservation Service. Webster, W.D., J.F. Parnell, and W.C. Biggs. 1985. Mammals of the Carolinas, Virginia, and Maryland. The University of North Carolina Press. Chapel Hill, NC.